Choosing a care home for someone with dementia: questions to ask
Facts checked 18 Oct 2026. Written by our editors from the official sources below; not yet reviewed by a social worker or nurse. Not medical, legal or financial advice.
This is not medical advice. A doctor and assessor should assess care needs; for subsidised places, the standardised assessment decides the type of place. Government lists don't say whether a home specialises in dementia, so ask the home directly:
- How many residents with dementia does the home care for now? Are there activities or a dedicated area for them?
- How are exits secured against wandering? How many staff are on at night?
- What is the policy on restraints? Will the home discuss it with the family and ask for consent first?
- Have staff been trained in dementia care?
- How does the home respond to changes in mood or behaviour, and how does it tell the family?
- How often do visiting doctors or psychogeriatric outreach teams come?
Support for carers: Carer Hotline 182 183.